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Eine Frau im Rollstuhl und ein Mann stehen bzw. sitzen gemeinsam vor einem Laptop in einem modernen Büro oder Arbeitsumfeld. Beide Personen lächeln und blicken auf den Bildschirm. Die Frau trägt eine hellblaue Bluse, der Mann ist lässig mit Hoodie und T-Shirt gekleidet. Die Atmosphäre wirkt freundlich und konzentriert, was auf eine produktive Zusammenarbeit hindeutet. Das Bild vermittelt Inklusion, digitale Teilhabe und eine barrierefreie Arbeitsumgebung.
News Reading Time 3 min | 27.06.2025

The BFSG Applies: Digital Exclusion Is Now Illegal

Digital accessibility is no longer optional – it’s the law. Since 28 June 2025, the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) requires B2C products to be accessible to all. If you’re building digital services, you must include everyone – or face legal consequences.

by Usetree Staff

Accessibility in the digital world is no longer a “nice-to-have” – it has been mandatory since 28 June 2025. The Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) obliges companies to ensure that digital products and services are accessible to everyone. This applies to all B2C digital products – from apps and smartphones to ATMs, e-book readers, ticket machines and computers.

What exactly does the BFSG require?

In short: Any digital product launched after 28 June 2025 must be accessible from day one – there is no grace period. Existing products on the market before that date must be made accessible by 2030.

Why this affects everyone

Digitalisation without inclusion is exclusion. Every day, people with disabilities encounter avoidable digital barriers: inaccessible PDFs, apps that don’t support screen readers, online shops that can’t be navigated by keyboard. The BFSG is intended to put an end to this – at least from a legal standpoint.

What does digital accessibility actually mean?

It means that all people can use digital products – regardless of physical, sensory or cognitive abilities. In practical terms, that includes:

  • Screen reader support for users with visual impairments
  • Full keyboard navigation without a mouse
  • Subtitles and audio descriptions for video content
  • Sufficient colour contrast and alt text for images
  • Compatibility with assistive technologies like Braille keyboards
  • Avoiding flashing content that can pose health risks

What happens if companies ignore this?

The market surveillance authorities in Germany’s federal states are responsible for enforcement. If a product fails to meet the requirements, companies may face:

  • Formal orders to make products compliant
  • Restrictions or bans on product availability
  • Market withdrawal
  • Fines of up to €100,000

Additionally, representative organisations can file legal action on behalf of affected user groups. This makes inaccessibility not just a user experience issue, but a legal liability.

UseTree Makes Digital Accessibility Feasible

We support companies in implementing accessible digital products in full compliance with the BFSG – with expertise, real user feedback and practical solutions.

Our services include:

  • Consulting: Tailored strategies based on your product and target audience
  • Expert Reviews: Accessibility audits by experienced specialists
  • BFSG Testing: User testing with people with disabilities to ensure real-world usability
  • Concept, Implementation & Documentation: Support across all project phases
  • Full-service solutions: One partner for complete BFSG compliance

Our Goal: Digital Inclusion for All

Accessibility is more than a legal checkbox – it’s a hallmark of quality, a human right and a driver of innovation. With UseTree, you don’t just meet requirements – you create truly usable digital products.

👉 Get in touch now and take the next step towards accessibility – with UseTree.